Leeds Rhinos overcome Toulouse fightback to reclaim top spot in Super League

Leeds Rhinos weathered a spirited second-half fightback from Toulouse to record a 48-24 victory at Stade Ernest Wallon and return to the top of the Betfred Super League, leapfrogging Warrington on points difference.

A dominant first half saw Leeds race to a 30-0 lead with tries from Brodie Croft (4th minute), Maika Sivo, and two from Harry Newman, while Fergie McCormack crossed for his first Leeds try in his third appearance. Toulouse struck back just before halftime through Thomas Lacans, giving the home side momentum.

The hosts roared after the restart, with Luke Polselli, Lacans again, and Matthieu Laguerre scoring within 12 minutes to cut the deficit to 30-24. However, Leeds steadied themselves: Sivo’s second try, set up by Jake Connor and McCormack, halted Toulouse’s momentum. Chris Hankinson and Cameron Smith added late scores after breaks from Mikolaj Oledzki and Cooper Jenkins, sealing the win. Connor converted all eight efforts.

Leeds’ 11th win of the season moves them back above Warrington, while Toulouse remain 12th after a 10th defeat. The victory was Leeds’ first at this venue.